Cut a phrase out of plain cardstock, and use the leftover solid portion for a stencil-like effect. I used the Lucky me handwritten phrase and saved the cut out words for another project. I layered some old book pages under the stencil. I kept everything around the title tone-on-tone, so it wouldn't compete with the photo and layering above.

Use die cut leaves to make a fun border.

Layer die cut leaves under the photo. I used the clover cluster from my Clover and Luck cut file set and cut out two pieces (after removing the inner portion of each clover to create solid, filled-in leaf shapes). By layering the two shorter pieces under the photo, it creates a continuous line to support the photo.. and gives the illusion the leaf border is actually one piece.

Use a background cut file as a stencil with modelling paste.

Create a mixed media layout background using a background cut file and modelling paste to created a textured pattern. On this page I used my Clover Confetti background digital cut file, and cut it out on a 12x12 piece of plain cardstock -- this is the stencil. Lay the stencil over white cardstock (I like American Crafts white textured cardstock). Use something firm but flexible to spread modelling paste over the stencil. Work carefully and from several directions to ensure the modelling paste fills in all of the stencil detail. I use a scrap of cardboard (a cereal box works well) or an old gift card to spread the modelling paste. Carefully remove the stencil while the modelling paste is still wet by slowly peeling it back from one corner and lifting away.

Here's a close up of the layering under the photo. Combine several different types of layerables to create a rich stack under your focal photo to really draw attention! Here I used gold tissue paper, floral patterned paper, a chipboard frame, and a fabric frame. I embellished the bottom of the photo with a Things That Shine gold glitter bow and a silver foil tag.